7 habits of people who look much younger than their age, even at 70

Have you ever met someone in their 60s or 70s who looks 15 years younger?
We often wonder, “How is that possible? What’s their secret?” While genetics plays a small role, it’s primarily daily habits that make the difference. People who age well tend to consistently adopt a few simple yet powerful practices. They don’t rely on expensive skincare or miracle diets. Instead, they follow accessible routines that nourish both their body and mind.

Let’s discover together the 7 habits of people who look much younger than their age.

1. They move their bodies every day

Aging gracefully doesn’t mean spending hours at the gym. These people stay active every day.

This can take the form of a brisk walk in the morning, a few dance steps in the living room, gardening, or even outdoor yoga. The important thing is to never remain completely inactive.

Exercise stimulates blood circulation, helps preserve muscle mass, and strengthens joints. It’s also beneficial for the skin: a McMaster University study revealed that people over 40 who exercised regularly had skin similar to that of people in their twenties, at a cellular level.
And let’s not forget the other benefits: improved mood, better sleep, and increased energy. All these factors influence how we look and feel as we age.

2. They eat real, colorful food.
Those who seem to defy time don’t follow fad diets. They simply choose to nourish their bodies well.

This means a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (like olive oil or avocado), nuts, legumes, and quality protein such as fish or tofu. Furthermore, a recent study has shown that flavonoids, found in these foods, help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve mental health.

They are not trying to deprive themselves, but to eat a balanced diet.

Colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, spinach, sweet potatoes, or tomatoes, are rich in antioxidants. These nutrients help neutralize free radicals responsible for premature aging.

One last piece of advice? They drink plenty of water. Good hydration contributes to supple, radiant, and healthy skin.

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3. They avoid chronic stress (or know how to manage it well).
Prolonged stress doesn’t just disturb the mind; it also accelerates the body’s aging process.
Chronic stress leads to excessive production of cortisol, a hormone that breaks down collagen, essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. It also acts at the cellular level, shortening telomeres, the protective caps of DNA that shield our cells. The shorter they are, the faster the aging process.

People who age slowly have often integrated stress management strategies into their daily lives: meditation, journaling, walks in nature, deep conversations with a loved one, or simply drinking a cup of tea and savoring it in silence.

They protect their inner peace. And, in doing so, they also protect their youth. Research has shown that chronic stress is associated with a shortening of telomeres, the protective ends of DNA, which accelerates cellular aging.

4. They sleep as if it were sacred

You never meet someone who looks younger than their age and boasts about only sleeping four hours a night.

The idea of ​​”sleeping when we are dead”? It quickly leaves visible traces: dark circles, dull complexion, persistent fatigue.

Deep sleep is a time of regeneration. It is during this phase that the body produces collagen, eliminates toxins accumulated in the brain, and regulates mood. Without good sleep, the signs of aging appear earlier.

People who age well take their sleep seriously. They create calming moments, limit screen time in the evening, and transform their bedroom into a true haven of peace.

5. They spend time with younger people (and laugh often).
This is an often overlooked habit.

Many people who maintain a youthful appearance at 70 have an almost contagious energy. Often, this vitality comes from their social life.

They don’t isolate themselves or limit their interactions to people of their own generation. They play with their grandchildren, chat with younger friends, or participate in intergenerational activities.
And above all, they laugh. A lot.

Laughter relaxes the body, reduces stress, boosts immunity… and brightens the face. It gives radiance, warmth, and an instantly younger appearance.

6. They remain curious and continue to learn

There is something profoundly alive about people who keep their minds awake.

Whether it’s learning a new language, reading regularly, discovering a new hobby, or exploring unfamiliar places, constant learning nourishes vitality.

Why does it work so well?

Because curiosity keeps the brain young. It encourages mental flexibility, stimulates the imagination, and fosters open-mindedness.

People who remain emotionally open are less likely to dwell on the past or develop bitterness — two attitudes that cause premature aging.

A Harvard study has shown that individuals who remain mentally active and socially engaged at an advanced age retain their autonomy and general well-being for longer.

7. They are not obsessed with looking young.
Ironically, those who look younger are not the ones desperately seeking to do so.

They don’t chase after every new cosmetic treatment, and they don’t live in fear of aging. They accept age as a natural part of life, while choosing to experience it with lightness and intention.

They take care of themselves, of course, but without becoming obsessive. This inner serenity greatly contributes to their youthful appearance.

Anxiety related to self-image can accelerate aging. Conversely, self-acceptance, genuine joy, and confidence radiate from within—and it shows. In fact, a study by Becca Levy revealed that older adults with a positive view of aging lived on average 7.5 years longer than those with a negative view.

This research highlights the significant impact of mental attitudes on physical health and longevity.

Final thoughts

You don’t need luxurious treatments, exceptional genetics, or strict discipline to look younger.

What makes all the difference are the small, consistent daily habits. Regular exercise. Eating well. Deep sleep. Laughing often. Staying curious. Protecting yourself from stress. And above all, living life to the fullest.

Growing old does not mean declining. It can also mean flourishing.

People who age well don’t try to stay stuck in their 30s. They live each stage of their lives intensely.

And that is probably the real secret.